A police investigator said a sexual assault victim showed exceptional strength throughout the criminal investigation, court case, and sentencing of three asylum seekers.

Ibrahim Alshafe, 25, Abdulla Ahmadi, 26, and Karin Al-Danasurt, 20, were found guilty at Lewes Crown Court in Hove of sexually assaulting a woman on Brighton’s seafront in October the previous year.

The complainant, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, lost sight of her friends and was taken to a location behind a beach building, where she suffered sexual assault. Al-Danasurt filmed what happened.

Egyptian national Alshafe and Iranian national Ahmadi were both found guilty by a jury today of two rape offences.

Egyptian national Al-Danasurt was also found guilty on all four rape charges as a helper, having assisted with and recorded the attack.

Outside the court, Detective Chief Superintendent Richard McDonagh described the victim as showing tremendous bravery.

He said the woman displayed exceptional courage in reporting the matter to police, assisting with their inquiries, and giving evidence in court despite extremely difficult circumstances.

Her actions ensured three dangerous individuals were brought to justice and will now be held responsible for their crimes.

While this verdict may bring some closure, she will bear the psychological impact of what happened for many years.

The investigative team also deserves recognition for their meticulous work, as do partner organisations for their help throughout the investigation and in supporting the victim.

Women deserve to feel safe in all environments at any time of day.

Brighton continues to be a place where people feel protected, but incidents like this illustrate why the authorities and partner agencies remain committed to protecting women and girls and why they pursue those responsible when such terrible acts occur.

Sentencing has been set for July 15.